Horace Underwood

Definition

Horace Underwood was a prominent American Presbyterian missionary who played a significant role in the introduction and spread of Christianity in Korea during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He established the first Protestant church in Korea and contributed to educational efforts, promoting the importance of literacy and Western-style education among Koreans.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Horace Underwood arrived in Korea in 1885 and began his mission work shortly thereafter, focusing on evangelism and education.
2. He founded the first Korean Presbyterian church in 1887, which became a cornerstone for the growth of Protestantism in Korea.
3. Underwood was instrumental in developing educational institutions, including Yonsei University, which is one of South Korea's leading universities today.
4. He published the first Korean-English dictionary and worked on translating the Bible into Korean, making Christian texts accessible to the local population.
5. His efforts laid the groundwork for future Christian missions in Korea and helped to establish a lasting Protestant presence in the country.

Review Questions

• How did Horace Underwood's work contribute to the development of Christianity in Korea?
  • Horace Underwood's contributions were pivotal in establishing Christianity in Korea through his founding of the first Korean Presbyterian church and his extensive missionary work. He not only focused on evangelism but also emphasized education, which allowed him to reach a broader audience. His commitment to translating important texts into Korean made Christianity more accessible, fostering a deeper understanding and acceptance of the faith among Koreans.
• What impact did Horace Underwood have on Korean education, and how did it relate to his mission efforts?
  • Underwood significantly impacted Korean education by establishing schools that promoted literacy and Western-style education. This focus on education was closely tied to his missionary goals, as he believed that educated individuals would be more receptive to Christian teachings. His efforts helped form a foundation for modern education in Korea, highlighting the interconnectedness between religious instruction and academic learning during this period.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Horace Underwood's mission work on contemporary Korean society and its religious landscape.
  • The long-term effects of Horace Underwood's mission work are evident in contemporary Korean society, where Christianity remains a major religion with significant influence. His foundational efforts led to a vibrant Protestant community that has played an important role in social movements and political activism throughout Korea's history. The educational institutions he established continue to thrive today, contributing to a culture that values both faith and learning. Furthermore, his legacy persists as Protestantism remains integral to South Korea's identity, shaping its cultural and social dynamics.

Related terms

Korean Protestant Church: A branch of Christianity that emerged in Korea, characterized by its roots in Western missionary efforts and its emphasis on individual faith and community involvement.

Korean War: A conflict that occurred from 1950 to 1953 between North Korea and South Korea, which had significant religious implications, including the persecution of Christians in the North.

Christian Missionary Movement: A global effort that aimed to spread Christianity to various parts of the world, leading to the establishment of churches, schools, and hospitals in many countries, including Korea.